Arroz a la Cubana, or Cuban-style rice, is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any meal of the day. This classic Spanish dish consists of white rice, tomato sauce, fried plantains, and a fried egg on top. It’s a versatile dish that can be made in many different ways, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Here, we’ll show you how to make a traditional Arroz a la Cubana recipe using Carolina White Rice, a premium quality rice that is perfect for this dish.

Ingredients

To make Arroz a la Cubana, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 cups of Carolina  White Rice get it here: (carolinarice.com/products/white-rice/)

4 cups of water

2 tablespoons of olive oil

1 onion, diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 can of diced tomatoes

1 teaspoon of ground cumin

Salt and pepper to taste

4 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced

4 eggs

Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

Step 1

Here are the step-by-step instructions for making Arroz a la Cubana:

Step 2

Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. This will help remove excess starch and prevent the rice from becoming too sticky.

Step 3

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper and sauté for about 5 minutes, until they are softened.

Step 4

Add the diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 5

Add the rinsed rice and 4 cups of water to the pot and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.

Step 6

Let the rice simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until all of the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender and fluffy. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for about 5 minutes.

Step 7

While the rice is cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced plantains and fry them until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides.

Step 8

Remove them from the pan and place them on a paper towel to drain off any excess oil.

In the same frying pan, fry the eggs to your liking (sunny-side up is traditional for Arroz a la Cubana).

Step 9

To serve, spoon the rice onto a plate, top it with the tomato sauce, and place a fried egg and a few slices of fried plantain on top.

History of Arroz a la Cubana

Arroz a la Cubana is a popular dish in many Spanish-speaking countries, but its origins can be traced back to Cuba. The dish is said to have been introduced during the colonial period, when Spanish settlers brought rice to the island. Over time, the dish evolved to include ingredients that were commonly found in Cuba, such as plantains and tomatoes.

Arroz a la Cubana became a staple dish in Cuban households and is now enjoyed in many countries around the world. Today, there are many variations of the dish, but the basic components remain the same: white rice, tomato sauce, fried plantains, and a fried egg on top. Arroz a la Cubana is a delicious and comforting dish that continues to be a favorite among families and foodies alike.

Variations of Arroz a la Cubana

Arroz a la Cubana has become a beloved dish around the world, and as a result, there are many different variations of the recipe. While the basic components of white rice, tomato sauce, fried plantains, and a fried egg remain the same, different regions have added their own unique twists to the dish.

In the Philippines, Arroz a la Cubana is often made with ground beef, peas, and carrots, and is served with a side of banana ketchup. In Mexico, the dish is known as “Arroz a la Mexicana” and is made with diced tomatoes, onions, and green chili peppers. In Spain, the dish is often served with a side of beans and chorizo sausage.

No matter the variation, Arroz a la Cubana remains a delicious dish that can be enjoyed by anyone, anywhere.

Side Dishes for Arroz a la Cubana

Arroz a la Cubana is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of side dishes. Here are some delicious side dishes that pair well with Arroz a la Cubana:

  • Fried Plantains: Fried plantains are a classic accompaniment to Arroz a la Cubana, and they provide a sweet and savory contrast to the dish.
  • Black Beans: Black beans are a staple in many Latin American countries and are a great side dish for Arroz a la Cubana. They add a hearty and protein-rich element to the meal.
  • Tostones: Tostones are another type of fried plantain that are sliced and then fried again to make them crispy. They are a tasty and crunchy addition to Arroz a la Cubana.
  • Avocado Salad: A simple avocado salad made with diced avocado, red onion, and lime juice can provide a fresh and tangy contrast to the dish.

Arroz a la Cubana is a delicious and versatile dish that has become a staple in many Spanish-speaking countries. Its origins can be traced back to Cuba, but now there are many variations of the recipe that can be enjoyed around the world.

If you’re looking for a great rice option to use in your Arroz a la Cubana, Carolina White Rice is a fantastic choice. It’s the perfect rice to use for this classic dish, and its fluffy texture and delicious taste will make your Arroz a la Cubana even more enjoyable. So why not give it a try and experience the deliciousness of Arroz a la Cubana for yourself?